article MariaDB vs MySQL (2026) | 247QuickTools
⚖️ Comparison · Updated for 2026

MariaDB vs MySQL

Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.

Quick answer: MariaDB was forked from MySQL in 2009 when Oracle acquired Sun (MySQL's owner). MariaDB is open-source, drop-in compatible with MySQL for most uses. MySQL has more enterprise features (Oracle's commercial editions). For most projects in 2026, MariaDB is the default open-source choice.
Decision guide — when to use which
Use MariaDB when…

Open-source projects, Linux distributions (default in most), free hosting.

Use MySQL when…

Existing MySQL projects, Oracle ecosystem, specific commercial features.

📊 Side-by-side comparison
Aspect MariaDB MySQL
License GPL (always open-source) GPL + commercial editions
Owned by MariaDB Foundation Oracle Corporation
Default on RHEL/Debian MariaDB No
Replication Multi-source built in Available
Storage engines More options MyISAM, InnoDB primary

Frequently asked

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Can I switch from MySQL to MariaDB?

For most applications, yes — drop-in replacement. Same protocol, same SQL syntax, same drivers. Test in staging first; some newer MySQL features (JSON_TABLE, window function specifics) may differ.

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Why not just use PostgreSQL?

PostgreSQL is more standards-compliant and has more advanced features (better JSON, window functions, full-text search). MariaDB/MySQL has better replication for simple primary-replica setups. For new projects, PostgreSQL is increasingly the default.

Reviewed for 2026. All conversion factors and historical references verified against official sources (ISO standards, government weights & measures legislation, IEC technical specifications). Built by a UK-based qualified primary teacher and FA Level 2 coach as part of 247QuickTools' free utility-tools project. We don't sell SEO links or accept paid placements in this content.

Frequently asked questions

Can I switch from MySQL to MariaDB?

For most applications, yes — drop-in replacement. Same protocol, same SQL syntax, same drivers. Test in staging first; some newer MySQL features (JSON_TABLE, window function specifics) may differ.

Why not just use PostgreSQL?

PostgreSQL is more standards-compliant and has more advanced features (better JSON, window functions, full-text search). MariaDB/MySQL has better replication for simple primary-replica setups. For new projects, PostgreSQL is increasingly the default.